Embedded Files
Paper Recycling Project
In this learning project, you will explore the importance of recycling paper and how it helps protect our environment. We will investigate where paper comes from, what happens when we recycle it, and why reducing waste matters for our planet.
You will take part in hands-on activities where you will sort classroom waste, create recycled paper, and track how much paper we use and reuse in our learning space. Through discussion and inquiry, they will develop an understanding of sustainability and our role as kaitiaki (guardians) of the environment.
This project encourages teamwork, critical thinking, and action, as we work together to make our classroom more environmentally friendly and build habits that support a sustainable future.
Term 2 - Inquiry
Our Way – Inquiry Learning Theme
This term, our inquiry learning focuses on “Our Way – Understanding Ourselves, Others and Our World.” Through this theme, we will explore what it means to be healthy, connected, and responsible individuals within our classroom, community, and wider environment.
We will be guided by four big ideas. Firstly, we will learn how our brains and bodies work together to support our hauora (wellbeing), helping us understand how to care for ourselves physically, mentally, socially, and emotionally. Secondly, we will explore how our strengths, identity, and relationships shape who we are and how we interact with others.
We will also investigate how we are connected to our environment and have a responsibility to care for it, encouraging us to take action as kaitiaki of our world. Finally, we will focus on how communication helps us express ourselves and understand others, building confidence in sharing ideas, listening actively, and working collaboratively.
Through hands-on learning, discussion, and reflection, we will develop a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world, while strengthening relationships and making positive contributions to their environment.
Inquiry Focus
Healthy Minds, Healthy Kids
In this inquiry, we explore how we can look after our minds to grow, feel good, and be our best selves. Following the cycle of inquiry, we ask questions, investigate, and reflect on ways to manage our feelings, build positive habits, and support each other. Students will learn strategies for mindfulness, emotional wellbeing, and healthy thinking—discovering how taking care of our minds helps us thrive every day.
In this inquiry, we explore how we can look after our minds to grow, feel good, and be our best selves. Following the cycle of inquiry, we ask questions, investigate, and reflect on ways to manage our feelings, build positive habits, and support each other. Students will learn strategies for mindfulness, emotional wellbeing, and healthy thinking—discovering how taking care of our minds helps us thrive every day.
Inquiry & Reflective Questions: Who We Are in Aotearoa?
Inquiry & Reflective Questions: Who We Are in Aotearoa?
What does your culture mean to you? Can you share a tradition, custom, or value that is important in your family?
How do your Samoan / Tongan / Indian / Fijian / Vietnamese / Filipino roots influence the way you live in New Zealand?
What special foods, festivals, or celebrations from your culture do you enjoy at home or in the community?
How do you feel when you share your culture with friends or classmates?
What does it mean to you to be a Kiwi while also celebrating your own culture?
Are there things from your culture that you want to teach others at school?
How can learning about other cultures help us understand each other better?
What similarities or differences have you noticed between your culture and other cultures in Aotearoa?
How do your cultural traditions help you feel proud of who you are?
If you could create a new celebration that mixes your culture with Kiwi culture, what would it be?
Exploring Asian Countries & Ourselves
As part of our inquiry unit, we are discovering the rich cultures of China, Vietnam, and Japan, exploring food, festivals, celebrations, traditional dress, capitals, and currency. Along the way, we are also discovering who we are and where we come from, bringing our own cultures to New Zealand. Students will reflect on what it means to live as a Kiwi with diverse cultural roots, celebrating our identities while learning about others. Through hands-on activities, research, and creative projects, we explore both the world and ourselves.
Task: Exploring Asian Countries – Fact Sheet Activity
Open the presentation slides for each country: China, Vietnam, and Japan.
Watch and read through the slides carefully. Take note of important information about:
Food and traditional dishes
Festivals and celebrations
Traditional dress
Capitals and currency
Using the fact sheet provided on the left, fill in one sheet for each country with the information you find.
Make sure your answers are complete and in your own words.
When you finish, check your work to make sure all sections are filled out before submitting or sharing.
Tip: Take your time and look closely at the slides—there’s lots of interesting information to discover!
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